Bead

Art Historical Context

This unassuming glass bead, dating from the 8th to 13th century, hails from the vibrant world of Islamic art. Measuring just half an inch in diameter and width (1.3 cm by 1.2 cm), its petite form belies the craftsmanship of medieval artisans. Drilled through its center, it was designed for stringing into jewelry, amulets, or strings—common adornments in daily life across the Islamic world, from the Abbasid Caliphate to regional trade hubs. Crafted from glass, a medium prized for its versatility and luster, this bead exemplifies the sophisticated glassworking techniques of the era. Artisans li...